| Don't Let Your Mouth Go Up in Smoke! |
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>Choose another FAQ topic. |
You already know many of the health risks associated with
smoking, such as lung cancer and heart disease: but did you know that
tobacco can cause disease in your mouth?
|
| Oral Effects |
| - you have a much greater risk of developing oral
cancer |
| - increase in periodontal (gum) disease which is a
leading cause of tooth loss in adults |
| - delayed healing after a tooth extraction or oral
surgery |
| - reduced taste and smell |
| - bad breath |
- staining of your teeth, white fillings, tongue and
dentures
|
|
| Benefits of Quitting |
| - you'll reduce your risk of developing heart disease
and lung cancer |
| - your risk of developing oral cancer decreases
significantly |
| - your gum tissues will be healthier |
| - your teeth will look whiter |
| - renewed taste and smell |
- fresher breath
|
|
| Practice Healthy Oral Habits |
| - Since the use of tobacco is a major risk factor
associated with oral cancer and periodontal disease, your mouth will
be much healthier when you quit smoking. |
| - If you are ready to quit, ask your dental health
professional or physician about programs and resources in your
community that can help you quit. |
| - Make it a regular routine to look for any changes
in your mouth - under your tongue, lips, the back of your mouth and
throat, your cheeks and the roof of your mouth |
| - If you notice any changes in your mouth that do not
heal within two weeks, see your dentist or physician immediately. |
- Visit your dentist for yearly check-ups. Even
if you wear dentures your dentist should see you regularly to
identify any changes in your mouth.
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| Fight Oral Cancer! |
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>Choose another FAQ topic. |
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